hi all

i had an emergency c/s for my first child 17 months ago. i found it to be highly traumatic (feelings of failure, etc), and am still dealing with those issues now. the only thing that has 'helped' me get through these feelings was the positive attitude and belief that i would attempt a VBAC for my second child. so when i fell pregnant this time, i sought out an OB that has an excellent reputation for VBACs and pro-VBs, and has an extremely low c/s rate (something like 3%).

however, at the 20 week scan for this baby (3 weeks ago now) we found out that the baby has a congenital heart defect - something that will require open heart surgery within the first few weeks of life. we decided to continue the pregnancy and i was 'feeling back to normal' again and have sorted through a huge pile of emotions to do with my baby.

but today, i was told by my OB that i will have to have an elective c/s for this baby for convenience reasons... the cardio specialists that will need to check my baby once born only work 9-5 monday to fridays, so i would need to have the baby at a convenient time for them.

i am so devastated.... i now have to come to the realisation that i will never have a natural birth. i want to do what's best for my baby, but i just dont know how to deal with the psychological side of another c/s.

i was wondering if anyone knew of a good counsellor or psychologist in the Melbourne (inner suburbs) area that may have helped them or a friend through something similar? i guess i am after someone experienced with this sort of thing.... or a recommendation....

i just dont think i am able to sort through my feelings constructively, and i dont want this to eat at me for the rest of my life.. i thought a professional could help....